MoFi Electronics MasterDeck Turntable

Closer to the Master

The MoFi Electronics MasterDeck Turntable was created to uncover the information, dynamics and musical character preserved in the record groove. Designed by renowned analog engineer Allen Perkins and assembled in limited batches in Ann Arbor, Michigan, it combines a sophisticated bearing, optically regulated drive system, hybrid platter and highly adjustable 10-inch carbon-fiber tonearm.

The MasterDeck is available in Black or Walnut. Each finish is offered in two configurations:

• Without a phono cartridge: For listeners who already own a reference cartridge or want to select one specifically for their system.
• With the MoFi UltraGold MC: A factory-installed moving-coil cartridge with a Nude Shibata stylus and boron cantilever.

Designed by Allen Perkins

MasterDeck incorporates ideas Allen Perkins developed over more than three decades of designing high-performance turntables. Its bearing, drive system, tonearm and material combinations were selected to deliver the precision of an esoteric analog source in a reliable and approachable design.

Each MasterDeck is manufactured and assembled in limited batches at MoFi Electronics’ factory in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Solid-wood framing is available in understated Black Ash or natural Walnut.

Optically Regulated Three-Speed Drive

The belt-drive system uses an isolated, sensor-regulated motor to maintain accurate platter rotation. An optical system monitors speed, while the front display shows the selected setting as the platter reaches the proper rotation rate.

MasterDeck supports 33⅓, 45 and 78 rpm records. Its precision trim control adjusts speed in 0.1-rpm increments over a broad range, allowing collectors to correct the playback pitch of records that were not cut precisely at a standard speed.

A 14.35-Pound Aluminum and Delrin Platter

The 1.75-inch-thick platter combines an aluminum structure with a Delrin record surface. Aluminum supplies rotational mass and rigidity, while Delrin has mechanical properties similar to vinyl and provides a stable, well-damped interface for the record.

The platter rotates on an encapsulated Spiral Groove inverted bearing engineered to minimize friction, control unwanted movement and maintain consistent alignment under the platter’s substantial weight.

A 10-Inch Dual-Pivot Carbon-Fiber Tonearm

The included 10-inch tonearm combines elements of unipivot and gimbal-bearing designs. Its damped carbon-fiber arm tube provides rigidity with low resonance, while the dual-pivot arrangement improves lateral stability and precise cartridge control.

The tonearm provides adjustments for azimuth, overhang, zenith, vertical tracking angle, tracking force and anti-skating. Its removable headshell and 5-to-14-gram cartridge-weight range make the MasterDeck compatible with a broad selection of premium moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges.

HRS Isolation Feet

Harmonic Resolution Systems developed the MasterDeck’s isolation feet to provide movement in multiple directions. By allowing the turntable to float relative to its supporting surface, the feet help prevent floor vibration, loudspeaker energy and mechanical feedback from reaching the stylus.

Choose Your MasterDeck

• Black without cartridge: A restrained Black Ash finish ready for your preferred cartridge.
• Black with UltraGold MC: A complete MoFi reference combination with the cartridge installed and adjusted at the factory.
• Walnut without cartridge: Natural solid-wood styling with complete cartridge flexibility.
• Walnut with UltraGold MC: A factory-matched turntable and moving-coil cartridge package in a warm wood finish.

The UltraGold MC Option

The MoFi UltraGold is a low-output moving-coil cartridge voiced by Allen Perkins and manufactured in Japan. Its Nude Shibata stylus provides extensive contact with the groove walls, while the boron cantilever combines low moving mass with high rigidity.

A neodymium magnet, permendur yoke and pure-copper PCOCC coils support its wide frequency response, precise transient reproduction and detailed stereo presentation. Threaded mounting holes simplify installation and eliminate the need to balance separate nuts beneath the headshell.

The UltraGold produces 0.4mV of output and requires an MC-compatible phono preamplifier. MoFi recommends a load of at least 100 ohms and a tracking force between 1.8 and 2.2 grams.

Is the MoFi MasterDeck Right for You?

• Choose it if: You want a reference-grade turntable designed and manufactured in the United States.
• Choose it if: You value highly adjustable speed control for 33⅓, 45 and 78 rpm records.
• Choose it if: You want a fully adjustable 10-inch carbon-fiber tonearm that supports future cartridge changes.
• Choose it if: You value the vibration control provided by HRS isolation feet and a massive hybrid platter.
• Choose the no-cartridge version if: You already own a suitable cartridge or want to create a custom analog front end.
• Choose the UltraGold version if: You want a factory-installed moving-coil cartridge with a Nude Shibata stylus.
• Keep in mind: The MasterDeck does not include a phono preamplifier or dust cover.
• Keep in mind: The turntable weighs 37.4 pounds and should be placed on a rigid, level surface capable of supporting at least 40 pounds.

Setup and System Matching

The MasterDeck requires careful assembly because its platter and tonearm are protected separately during shipping. Setup includes installing the platter, spindle, belt, tonearm and tonearm cable, leveling the turntable and completing its automatic motor-calibration process.

The no-cartridge version requires cartridge installation and adjustment of overhang, zenith, azimuth, tracking force, vertical tracking angle and anti-skating. When purchased with the UltraGold MC cartridge, cartridge installation and primary adjustments are completed at the factory, but tracking force and alignment should still be checked after unpacking.

The UltraGold version requires a moving-coil phono preamplifier with appropriate gain and loading. Audio Advisor can help you select a compatible phono stage and ensure the cartridge is properly matched to your system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which finishes and cartridge configurations are available?

The MasterDeck is available in Black or Walnut. Either finish may be ordered without a cartridge or with the MoFi UltraGold moving-coil cartridge.

Does the MasterDeck include a tonearm?

Yes. It includes MoFi’s 10-inch dual-pivot carbon-fiber tonearm with a removable headshell and extensive cartridge adjustments.

Does it have a built-in phono preamp?

No. A separate phono preamplifier is required. The UltraGold package needs a phono stage with moving-coil compatibility.

Can it play 78 rpm records?

Yes. The MasterDeck supports 33⅓, 45 and 78 rpm, with precision trim adjustment for nonstandard recording speeds.

Is the UltraGold cartridge installed?

When the MasterDeck is ordered with the UltraGold MC, the cartridge is installed and adjusted at the factory. Its setup should still be verified after unpacking and installation.

Is a dust cover included?

No. The MasterDeck does not include a dust cover.

Can I use a different cartridge?

Yes. The tonearm supports cartridges weighing between 5 and 14 grams and provides the adjustments needed to accommodate a wide range of premium designs.

The MoFi MasterDeck is built for serious vinyl listeners who want precise speed control, extensive cartridge flexibility and reference-level engineering without losing sight of the music.

Why Audio Advisor?

Audio Advisor is one of the longest-running specialty audio retailers in the United States. Our knowledgeable audio experts can help you choose the right cartridge, phono preamp and accessories for your MasterDeck. Enjoy expert support, fast fulfillment and free shipping on qualifying orders.